McLaren Vale’s Bereford Shiraz
Beresford Wines: Where the Earth Sings and the Grapes Dance
From the sun-dappled slopes of McLaren Vale comes news so delicious, it practically swirls itself into a glass. Beresford Wines has stolen the show at the 2024 McLaren Vale Wine Awards, with their Classic Shiraz 2021 and Emblem ‘Old Vine’ Grenache 2023 each crowned with shimmering 95-point Gold Medals. These wines aren’t just drinks—they’re bottled poetry, with a side of five-spice and a pinch of fennel for good measure.
The Shiraz that sings of the Vale
Let’s begin with the Classic Shiraz 2021, a wine so charismatic it could charm the cork out of its own bottle. With blueberry, red cherry, and plum aromas that linger like the memory of a perfect sunset, this Shiraz is no mere mortal of the vine. It’s a symphony of McLaren Vale’s signature power and elegance, aged in both French and American oak for a finish that’s as smooth as a ballroom waltz.
Pair it with a robust veggie tagine, and you’ve got yourself a dinner that could make even the crankiest uncle smile. At just $30, it’s an affordable slice of McLaren Vale luxury—a wine that knows how to mingle without hogging the spotlight.
The Grenache of Old Tales
And then there’s the Emblem ‘Old Vine’ Grenache 2023, a wine born from 60-year-old bush vines in the hallowed grounds of Blewitt Springs. This Grenache is more than a drink—it’s a storyteller offering notes of strawberry jam, cherry, and dark plum with hints of fennel and mint that nod to its ancient roots.
Crafted with 20% whole bunch and aged in old puncheons, the wine retains the full charisma of its fruit, offering a palate that’s expressive yet restrained, bold yet elegant. When you’re serving smoky eggplant to the kind of friends who deserve better than box wine, the Emblem Grenache delivers a tasting experience as memorable as it is versatile. At $35, it’s a small price to pay for a sip of history.
McLaren Vale: The Land That Grows Legends
Beresford’s vineyards, nestled in the premium Blewitt Springs sub-region, are the stuff of winemaking dreams. According to Chris Dix, Head Winemaker at Beresford Estate, their philosophy is simple: craft wines that capture the essence of McLaren Vale while elevating every moment spent around the table.
Where to Find These Liquid Masterpieces
You don’t have to embark on a pilgrimage to McLaren Vale to taste these treasures. Beresford’s Classic Shiraz and Emblem Grenache are now available at Dan Murphy’s, Liquorland, First Choice, and independent retailers. Whether it’s a casual dinner, a grand celebration, or just a Tuesday night that needs rescuing, these wines are ready to transform your gatherings into events worth remembering.
Final Thoughts: A Toast to Craftsmanship
The Classic Shiraz 2021 is like a smooth-talking charmer at a dinner party, while the Emblem Grenache 2023 is the wise elder who pulls you aside to share tales of the past. Together, they are the yin and yang of McLaren Vale’s finest.
